News

On 2nd May, the Heart of Research project was officially launched through a lively online event hosted by the Society for Research into Higher Education (SRHE). The project, co-led by Professor Emily F. Henderson, Dr James Burford and Anna Numa Hopkins from the DEAR Centre at the University of Warwick, explores the aims, nature, and values of education research centres.

The launch event brought together researchers, research centre directors, and higher education leaders to discuss how research centres can be designed and led with inclusion at their core. Presentations from the research team offered insights from the project’s extensive interviews and case studies, foregrounding the often-overlooked cultural and institutional dynamics that shape research centre life.

The event also marked the release of a suite of key resources:

· Final Report: The Heart of Research: Exploring the Aims, Nature and Values of Education Research CentresLink opens in a new window 

· Briefing for HE Institutions: Developing Institutional Mechanisms for Inclusive Research CentresLink opens in a new window 

· Briefing for Research Centre Directors: Developing and Leading Inclusive Research CentresLink opens in a new window 

· Launch Event Recording: Watch on YouTubeLink opens in a new window 

The event reinforced the Heart of Research project's central message: that education research centres matter—not only for research productivity but for the cultures, careers, and communities they foster.